Grand Master’s Message
P
reserving the history of the Grand Encampment Knights Templar should be a top priority for the leadership of Grand Encampment. As we enter into the 69th triennium, it has been brought to my attention that our history has not been updated since 1979 when James Morris Ward became most eminent grand master. At the end of the 69th triennium, that will be twenty-seven years of Templar history that will need to be researched and published. History of the Grand Encampment Knights Templar of the United States of America was first authored by Chairman Francis J. Scully, MD and his committee. Book one of Templar History starts from the days of the ancient Templars to the 44th conclave of the modern Templars, the second book was authored by Chairman Lieutenant Colonel Jacob C. Baird and his committee and is the continuation of Templar history from 1949 until 1997. It is now time to write the 3rd volume of Templar history which will end with the 69th triennium. I would like a volunteer to undertake the writing of the third volume of the Grand Encampment Knights Templar of the United States of America book three. He must have knowledge of Templar history and be a proven author. When this new author is found he will be the chairman and, at his own discretion, can select the other members of his committee. Sir Knights, please consider this most important undertaking. While doing some research on the Knights Templar Eye Foundation, I found this impressive short report by Grand Master William C. Gordon 1952-1955. “The order of Christian Knighthood is distinctive in purpose and procedure among strictly Masonic organizations. It is committed to enlistment under the banner of Jesus Christ, the Great Captain of our Salvation. It gives positive and militant allegiance to Him and His teachings. It makes public appearances proudly and unashamedly, in uniforms, with the insignia and banners testifying to its belief and its allegiance. By such appearances and through its avowed objectives, it obeys one of the final injunctions of the Master, ‘Ye shall be my witness.’ It is contended by some that parades or public appearances may soon become relics of the past since they are frowned upon or actually prohibited by the authorities in some communities.” These impressive words touched my heart as they should touch the hearts of all Knights Templar. In the 1955 triennium, while Grand Master Gordon presided, the Knights Templar Eye Foundation was born. Sincerely and Fraternally, Michael B. Johnson, grand master 4
october 2021
